The 7 Wonders Of The World
Here are the top seven natural marvels of the globe.
Petra, a remarkable ancient city in Jordan, is accessed through a breathtaking 1.2km-long siq (a narrow gorge with towering rock walls reaching up to 80 meters high). The journey to the Treasury building within Petra is a stunning experience. Discovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812, this hidden wonder has since become Jordan's premier tourist attraction.
Great Wall of China:
The Great Wall of China, an architectural marvel built in the 7th century, spans nearly 9000 km and weaves through majestic mountains. We've had the privilege of visiting two sections: the Muytianyu Wall and the Badaling Great Wall. Both offer awe-inspiring views and live up to the wall's legendary status.
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil:
Standing tall on Mount Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer overlooks Rio De Janeiro and is visible from all angles of the city. Our most memorable experience was a doors-off helicopter ride that allowed us to view this iconic statue from above. Construction on this 30-meter-tall statue began in 1926, contributing to Rio's popularity as a top tourist destination.
Colosseum, Italy:
Our dream of seeing the Colosseum in Rome became a reality when we stayed in an apartment overlooking this ancient amphitheater. Built in the 1st century, the Colosseum has a brutal history, with gladiator battles and public executions. Today, it stands as a historic ruin, drawing over 6 million visitors annually.
Machu Picchu, Peru:
Our visit to Machu Picchu was initially shrouded in clouds, but as the morning progressed, we witnessed the breathtaking sight of this ancient Incan city high in the Andes mountains. Discovered by the western world in 1911, Machu Picchu's terraces cascade down the mountainside, showcasing the incredible engineering prowess of the Incas.
Chichen Itza, Mexico:
Chichen Itza, located in the Yucatan Peninsula, was the first of the new wonders of the world we ever visited. This Mayan city, dating back to the 9th century, is closely tied to astronomy, with structures designed to align with equinoxes. The Great Pyramid, with 365 steps and a Venus platform, is a remarkable testament to ancient Mayan ingenuity.
Taj Mahal, India:
The Taj Mahal in India, though our least favorite of the seven wonders, is undeniably impressive. Completed in 1658 by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, it is considered a beautiful love story and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Despite the crowds, the Taj Mahal's beauty shines through, and it holds a unique place among the world's wonders.
These seven wonders represent the pinnacle of human architectural and engineering achievements, each with its own unique history and allure.